Trijicon ACOG 5.5x 50mm Red Chevron 308 / 7.62 BDC Reticle Rifle Scope Review

My first impression of Trijicon ACOG 5.5x 50mm Red Chevron 308 / 7.62 BDC Reticle Rifle Scope

For years, I’d heard whispers and boasts, legends really, about the Trijicon ACOG – the gold standard in combat optics. When the opportunity arose to finally get my hands on the Trijicon ACOG 5.5x 50mm Red Chevron 308 / 7.62 BDC Reticle Rifle Scope, specifically tailored for the .308/7.62 platform, I jumped at the chance. This optic, with its reputation for ruggedness, clarity, and battle-proven performance, promised to be a significant upgrade to my .308 Winchester AR platform.

My search began due to a frustrating series of near-misses during a recent hog hunt. I needed an optic that could offer rapid target acquisition, even in low light, and provide accurate bullet drop compensation (BDC) for the .308 round. I’d spent too long fiddling with turrets on variable optics, costing me precious seconds and ultimately, clean shots.

The unboxing experience was…underwhelming, in a way that only screams quality. The ACOG wasn’t flashy; it exuded a sense of purpose-built solidity. Picking it up, the weight (25.60 oz) was immediately noticeable, lending a reassuring feel of substance. The finish was a matte black, seemingly impervious to scratches, and the overall build quality felt bombproof.

I had considered the Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm CDS-ZL or the Vortex Viper PST Gen II 2-10×32, both respectable optics. However, neither offered the unique blend of fixed magnification, always-on illumination (thanks to the fiber optics and tritium), and the specific .308 BDC reticle that the Trijicon ACOG provides. I wanted something rugged and dependable, not something overly complex with a lot of features I wouldn’t use.

My initial impression was one of restrained excitement. It wasn’t love at first sight, but rather a growing respect for the optic’s inherent functionality and purposeful design. The ACOG felt like a tool, not a toy, and I was eager to see how it performed in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Trijicon ACOG 5.5x 50mm Red Chevron 308 / 7.62 BDC Reticle Rifle Scope to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground was a private range nestled in the Texas Hill Country. I mounted the ACOG on my .308 AR-10, ensuring a solid and level installation with the included Flat Top Adapter. The weather was typical for a Texas summer: hot, humid, and with a slight breeze.

The first shots were impressive. The 5.5x magnification provided ample detail for targets out to 300 yards, and the red chevron reticle was incredibly intuitive to use. The Bindon Aiming Concept (BAC) allowed me to keep both eyes open, enhancing situational awareness while rapidly acquiring targets. In the bright sunlight, the fiber optic illumination was vibrant and clear, making the chevron pop against the target.

I experienced no immediate issues, but I quickly realized the importance of proper eye relief (2.20″). Getting behind the scope consistently required mindful stock positioning. This is less forgiving than scopes with longer eye relief.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Trijicon ACOG has proven to be a remarkably durable and reliable optic. It’s endured multiple range sessions, a particularly brutal weekend hog hunt in dense brush, and even a few accidental bumps against trees and rocks. The finish shows no signs of wear, and the glass remains crystal clear.

Maintenance has been minimal. A quick wipe down with a lens cloth after each range session is all it’s needed to keep the glass clean. The sealed design means I haven’t worried about moisture or dust getting inside.

Compared to previous optics I’ve used, the ACOG excels in speed and simplicity. While variable power scopes offer versatility, the fixed 5.5x magnification and BDC reticle of the ACOG allows for significantly faster target acquisition and engagement at known distances. It’s a specialized tool, but it does its job exceptionally well. I previously used a different brand of variable power optic, but found the Trijicon to be superior in quick target acquisition.

Breaking Down the Features of Trijicon ACOG 5.5x 50mm Red Chevron 308 / 7.62 BDC Reticle Rifle Scope

Specifications

• Magnification: 5.5x. This fixed magnification offers a good balance between field of view and target detail at moderate ranges.
• Objective: 50mm. The large objective lens gathers ample light, providing a bright and clear image, even in low-light conditions.
• Field of View: 18.40 ft @ 100 yds. A wider field of view allows for better situational awareness and faster target acquisition.
• Eye Relief: 2.20″. The short eye relief requires consistent cheek weld and stock positioning for optimal viewing.
• Length: 12″. The compact size makes it manageable on a variety of rifles.
• Weight: 25.60 oz. It’s heavier than some other optics, but the added weight contributes to its rugged feel and durability.
• Finish: Illuminated Red Chevron .308/7.62 BDC Reticle. The .308/7.62 BDC reticle is specifically calibrated for the ballistic trajectory of these rounds, allowing for accurate holdovers at various distances.
• Reticle: 5yds-Infinity. The illuminated reticle offers excellent visibility in all lighting conditions.
• Adj Size: 5 Clicks per Inch @ 100 yds. The adjustment size allows for precise zeroing.

These specifications are crucial because they dictate the optic’s performance in various scenarios. The fixed magnification makes it ideal for quick target acquisition at known distances, while the BDC reticle eliminates the need for complex calculations in the field. The short eye relief is a trade-off for the compact size and ruggedness.

Performance & Functionality

The Trijicon ACOG 5.5x 50mm Red Chevron 308 / 7.62 BDC Reticle Rifle Scope excels at its primary function: providing rapid target acquisition and accurate shot placement at moderate ranges with .308/7.62 platforms. The illuminated chevron reticle is incredibly intuitive to use, drawing the eye quickly to the center of the field of view.

The strengths of the ACOG lie in its simplicity, durability, and always-on illumination. It’s a point-and-shoot optic that requires minimal training to master. The main weakness is the fixed magnification, which limits its versatility at very close or long ranges. The eye relief can also be unforgiving for some users.

The ACOG has exceeded my expectations in terms of speed and ruggedness. It’s significantly faster than variable power scopes for engaging multiple targets at known distances.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Trijicon ACOG is exceptional. The housing is made from rugged aluminum alloy, and the glass is multi-coated for maximum light transmission and clarity. While on the heavier side, the weight feels reassuringly solid and durable.

The ACOG isn’t designed for ultimate comfort; it’s designed for function. The short eye relief requires consistent cheek weld, but the overall design is streamlined and efficient. There’s a slight learning curve in mastering the Bindon Aiming Concept, but once learned, it significantly enhances situational awareness.

Durability & Maintenance

The Trijicon ACOG is built to last. Its rugged construction and sealed design make it virtually impervious to the elements. With proper care, this optic should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is minimal. Cleaning the lenses with a lens cloth is all that’s typically required. The tritium illumination is guaranteed for 12 years, eliminating the need for battery replacements.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Trijicon ACOG 5.5x 50mm Red Chevron 308 / 7.62 BDC Reticle Rifle Scope includes a Flat Top Adapter for mounting to Picatinny rails. Aftermarket accessories include lens covers, killFLASH anti-reflection devices, and various mounting options.

While the ACOG itself isn’t highly customizable, its compatibility with standard Picatinny rails allows for the addition of other accessories, such as backup iron sights or red dot sights for close-quarters engagements. Some users opt to add a riser mount to improve eye relief and cheek weld.

Pros and Cons of Trijicon ACOG 5.5x 50mm Red Chevron 308 / 7.62 BDC Reticle Rifle Scope

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Who Should Buy Trijicon ACOG 5.5x 50mm Red Chevron 308 / 7.62 BDC Reticle Rifle Scope?

The Trijicon ACOG 5.5x 50mm Red Chevron 308 / 7.62 BDC Reticle Rifle Scope is perfect for hunters and tactical shooters who prioritize speed and accuracy at moderate ranges with a .308/7.62 platform. It’s an ideal optic for hog hunting, deer hunting in wooded areas, and tactical applications where quick target engagement is essential.

Those who need variable magnification for long-range precision shooting or close-quarters engagements should skip this product. Also, individuals with difficulty maintaining a consistent cheek weld may find the short eye relief challenging.

A must-have accessory is a quality set of lens covers to protect the glass. Some users may also benefit from a riser mount to improve eye relief and cheek weld.

Conclusion on Trijicon ACOG 5.5x 50mm Red Chevron 308 / 7.62 BDC Reticle Rifle Scope

The Trijicon ACOG 5.5x 50mm Red Chevron 308 / 7.62 BDC Reticle Rifle Scope is a specialized optic that excels at its intended purpose: providing rapid target acquisition and accurate shot placement at moderate ranges with .308/7.62 rifles. While the fixed magnification and short eye relief may not be for everyone, the ACOG’s ruggedness, always-on illumination, and intuitive reticle make it a top choice for hunters and tactical shooters who value speed and reliability.

The price is undoubtedly a significant investment, but the ACOG’s durability and performance justify the cost for those who demand the best. I would personally recommend it to anyone seeking a battle-proven, no-nonsense optic for their .308/7.62 rifle. If you need a rugged, reliable optic that will perform in any condition, the Trijicon ACOG is worth the investment. Take the plunge and experience the legendary performance for yourself!

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